Virtual Hearings

  • Criminal Cases

    • Preliminary hearings and first appearances may be conducted virtually. Any party desiring to call a witness by video-conference shall file a notice of intention to present testimony by video-conference at least thirty (30) days prior to the date scheduled for such testimony. Unless the Defendant objects, the decision to allow such a virtual appearance shall lie within the discretion of the trial judge.

  • Civil Cases

    • Parties may appear virtually only with consent of the other party and the trial judge. Any party desiring to call a witness by video-conference shall file a notice of intention to present testimony by video-conference at least thirty (30) days prior to the date scheduled for such testimony. Any other party may file an objection to the testimony of a witness by video-conference within ten (10) days of the filing of the notice of intention. Prior to any virtual appearance, potential documentary evidence to be used or reviewed by the party/witness must be submitted to the Court and the opposing party no later than two (2) weeks prior to the hearing. In civil matters, the discretion to allow testimony via video-conference shall rest with the trial judge.
  • For additional information, please see Uniform Magistrate Court Rule 15.